GVSU May Grow American Indian Businesses

Date:
February 22, 2012

Derek Bailey, tribal chairman of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, knows the challenges members of his tribe face when it comes to running a business.

A lack of high-speed Internet, challenges transporting and creating awareness of their products, and difficulties finding experts to help craft a marketing or business plan all are among the obstacles faced by members of his tribe, which spans six counties in the northwestern corner of the Lower Penninsula.